Story perspectives

Waymo Investigated After Self-Driving Car Hits Child

1/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Waymo LLC's self-driving vehicle that struck a child near Santa Monica elementary school on January 23.
The child sustained minor injuries after running into the road from behind a parked SUV during school drop-off with a crossing guard.
Waymo reported the vehicle braked from 17 mph to 6 mph before contact.
Regulators will review speed, right-of-way decisions, and post-incident conduct.

History

Historical Context

The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, enacted in 1966, established federal safety standards for vehicles, leading to the creation of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This act aimed to reduce traffic fatalities and has evolved to address modern challenges, such as the safety of autonomous vehicles, highlighted by Waymo's recent incident involving a self-driving car striking a child.

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Story summary

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Waymo LLC's self-driving vehicle that struck a child near Santa Monica elementary school on January 23.
The child sustained minor injuries after running into the road from behind a parked SUV during school drop-off with a crossing guard.
Waymo reported the vehicle braked from 17 mph to 6 mph before contact.
Regulators will review speed, right-of-way decisions, and post-incident conduct.

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